That was right-the "Ethan Hunt" before her was none other than Tom.
To make it easier to keep a secret watch on Lockhart, Hermione had used the Spellbook to perform Soul Shaping on him, completely changing his appearance and giving him an entirely new identity.
With Lockhart's arrangements, Tom had officially joined the Ministry of Magic as an "outstanding recruit," becoming an Auror with impeccable credentials.
Hermione regarded the righteous-looking, sunny, cheerful "Ethan Hunt" before her with amusement.
Voldemort had really turned his life around. He was an Auror now, with a cushy government job.
Who would believe it?
Umbridge stared at Hermione with a smile that never reached her eyes.
"Miss Granger, a sharp tongue is all well and good. Enjoy mouthing off while you can. Once we reach the Ministry of Magic, you won't have the chance."
She paused deliberately, a hint of menace creeping into her voice.
"We have plenty of ways to make disobedient young wizards behave themselves."
Lockhart, Tom, and Snape were all speechless at that.
That stupid woman Umbridge really had a death wish.
She ought to appreciate Hermione while she was still willing to trade barbs. Once Hermione stopped bothering, that would be real trouble.
Seeing that Umbridge had no intention of stopping, Lockhart gave a light cough and interrupted.
"Madam Umbridge, I believe your choice of words may be somewhat inappropriate."
"As an official institution, the Ministry of Magic must conduct all its affairs in accordance with regulations and the law."
"We cannot simply disregard due process, can we?"
Umbridge fell silent.
She could ignore Hermione, ignore Snape, and even ignore the Ministry's other officials.
But Lockhart was the one person she could not ignore.
The reason was simple: Lockhart's rise had been far too meteoric.
He had entered the Ministry at